Methods and apparatus are described for \u201cSmart\u201d RF over Glass CPE Unit with Seamless PON Upgrade Capability. The cable reel includes a central hub and two side flanges constructed, in one embodiment, of composite plastic material having reinforcing material. The retreating crescent blade is formed along the tip portions of the central plate and the first and second plates. A metal barrier layer is formed on the entire surface including the contact hole. A time consuming recalibration of said magnetic field senor on assembling and disassembling the surgical instrument is thus avoided. The thermos layer is located below a clamping surface, and comprises a vacuum gap and an outer casing encapsulating the vacuum gap.